When surrounding oneself with things from the past either as a collector concentrating on a particular subject or in general terms furnishing a home with antique furniture or simply an interest in just a few decorative items to add to a home, creating a pleasant environment, discrimination when making a purchase is all important.
Originality as near as possible and good condition coupled with a richness of feel and colour which cannot be imitated associated with years of careful use and handling should be the aim.